Doctor insights on:
Diverticulitis And Bowel Movements

1

It can:
It depends on the location of the pain; typical might be left lower abdomen or pelvic, associated with the sigmoid colon inflammation. If you are having fevers or all-over abdominal pain, or signs of infection you should see your doctor; consider taking a daily fiber supplement.
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The gastrointestinal tract starts at the mouth, travel down the tunnel (esophagus), which connects to the stomach, which then empties into the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum---the three parts of the small intestine (@25 feet). This empties into the colon or large intestine (about 5 feet), which then becomes the sigmoid colon, rectum and out the anus. So, every morsel eaten goes on long journey.
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2

Prob not:
Probably not. Usually pain with a bowel movement is the result of either an anal fissure or external hemorrhoid. Neither one is dangerous and both are easily treated. Diverticulitis will usually give a patient fever and abdominal pain. The pain is more constant in nature. How long have you had this pain and is there any bleeding associated with the bm?
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3

Yes,:
The straining with having a bowel movement could cause additional abdominal pain during an episode of diverticulitis. This will not however make the diverticulitis worse. Remember that you need to be under the care of a doctor if you have diverticulitis and abdominal pain.
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4

Could be related.:
This could be related. After abdominal surgery, we can develop adhesions (scar tissue within the abdomen) that can ensnare the small intestines and cause obstruction. If you haven’t gone in seven days you should be evaluated, especially if you’re having abdominal pains.
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6

Mucous is normal:
It is normal to have mucous in your stool. If your colonoscopy was otherwise normal then that is good news. Stay on a bowel regimen, to help you achieve two soft bowel movements daily. Good luck.
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7

See physician:
Changes as described often relate to bowel/colon absorption issue. Since you have had history of ca and diverticulitis, these should be immediately evaluated by gastrointestinal specialist.
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Melena:
Black tarry stool, otherwise known as melena, can sometimes be due to diverticulitis, but certainly can be a sign of bleeding in the upper digestive tract. You should share this new finding with your doctor and see if it affects her working differential. You may need tests to rule out an upper gastrointestinal source of bleeding. Good luck.
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13

NO:
There really is not a " normal schedule" for everyone. If you are able to eat without bloating or pain, with good elimination of formed stool - do not become fixated on your bm frequency.
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16

GI bleeding:
Black stools can be caused by GI bleeding, pepto bismol, (bismuth subsalicylate) iron, kaopectate and licorice. Your doctor should be able to examine you and tell what the cause is.
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18

Eating fish and:
Overeating in general. Foul smelling bowel movements may suggest malabsorption. If you have had unintended weight loss, see your doctor otherwise do not be concerned and try eating less.
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19

Could be malabsorpti:
The important thing is to assess the duration, could be indigestion, from some meds or supplements or lack of absorption of nutrients, go to your doctor to have it checked.
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26

Yes & No:
You are still young to have serious intestinal problem like cancer. Most rectal bleeding for young people is from hemorrhoids. If you are constipated, take some laxatives or stool softeners. But you should still see your dr and be referred to a gastroenterologist for a colonoscopy to be checked for the above. Have a blood count too to check for anemia. Best wishes!
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27

Natural plugs:
There are some foods that are a bit constipating to many people. Bananas & apples (or applesauce)are the main fruits & I've seen consumption of more than 1/day do it. White breads, pasta (spaghetti or macaroni), cheese & chips are also common offenders. Each person may have their own contributor. A healthy intake of fluids will often override several of these & some foods naturally lossen stools.
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